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Pavilhão Chinês

a bar or a museum?

We opened the door and entered a whole new world! Thousands of pieces from the 18th to the 20th century, proudly exhibited in five wonderful rooms. It all started with the need to exhibit a private collection, so big that it led to the acquisition of an old grocery store from the early 20th century – O Pavilhão Chinês (The Chinese Pavilion) – which maintains its name to this day and has become a true treasure bazaar.

A bar or a museum? This was the question that came up when we entered The Chinese Pavilion. Art, airplanes, miniature dolls, medals, military artifacts, unique Bordallo Pinheiro pieces... While walking through the space, we found thousands of pieces on display, all of which take us on a journey that sharpens our every gaze. It is impossible to remain indifferent to this place, and it is also impossible to contain our admiration. When looking around us, in the midst of all these treasures, we found people contemplating the walls, ceilings and counters, taking in everything, cocktail in hand, as if it were a museum.

This is a place with a very characteristic refinement, which has transformed it into a cult bar for Lisbon-goers and tourists. It was with pride that the manager told us that when tourists return to Lisbon after a first visit, they always go back to The Chinese Pavilion! And yes, you can easily see why they return... Besides all the local charm, it is impossible to admire the entire collection in just one visit!